129 to 99 B.C.
A Greek physician by the name of Galen was the first person to use the word “psora,” to define a skin disorder with characteristics similar to modern-day psoriasis.
1300s
Psoriasis was frequently confused with leprosy; this confusion lasted for centuries. As such, many patients who had psoriasis were given the same treatments used for those with leprosy. These treatments included social isolation, a declaration of death, andâbeginning in 1313âa burning at the stake, compliments of the King of France.
1809
The Grandfather of Dermatology, Robert Willan, became the first doctor to clearly define the description of the lesions associated with psoriasis. He even illustrated the lesions associated with the different kinds of the disease.
1841
The Austrian dermatologist Ferdinand von Hebra permanently removed the term “lepra” from the description of psoriasis, finally separating leprosy and psoriasis.
1860
The first person to use the term “psoriasis arthritique” or “arthritic psoriasis” was French physician Pierre Bazin. He coined this term after a fellow dermatologist (Jean Louis Alibert) recognized that there was an association between psoriasis and the joint condition.
1950s
People started using topical corticosteroids to treat the disease. The risks associated with corticosteroids, unfortunately, had yet to be discovered.
1960s to 1970s
Experts found that phototherapy/UV light effectively treats psoriasis.
Early 2000s
Experts introduce biologics for treating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, given through an IV or via an injection.
2019 and Beyond
The biologic injectable bimekizumab is in clinical trials. It shows promise in clearing psoriasis more effectively than any of the current treatments for this disease. It should be released in the next couple of years.
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